Statement Of Superintendent Joseph J. Santiago Regarding Death Of State Trooper John L. Oliva #5760

West Trenton, N.J. - Joseph J. Santiago, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police today stated, "It is with the feeling of deep regret that we announce the tragic death of Trooper John L. Oliva. We extend our heart felt sympathies and prayers to his family and loved ones, and pledge our continued support to Trooper Oliva's family during this most difficult time."

Trooper John L. Oliva joined
the New Jersey State Police on November 13, 1998 as a member
of the 118th Class. He was assigned to Troop "A"
and served as a general road duty trooper at Bellmawr, Buena
Vista, Woodbine and Tuckerton Stations. Trooper Oliva, who
had been out on administrative absence, was scheduled to return
to full duty on October 15, 2002.

Prior to joining the State
Police, he served as a police officer in Absecon and Pleasantville,
and as a corrections officer at the Atlantic County Jail.
Trooper Oliva also served in the United States Marine Corps.

Trooper Oliva is survived by
his father, John L. Oliva Sr, mother Carolyn, and sisters
Karen and Michelle. Funeral arrangements are incomplete at
this time.

"Investigation into the circumstances surrounding Trooper Oliva's death is being investigated by the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office with the assistance of the State Police Major Crime Unit and the Absecon Police Department. Any questions regarding the investigation should be addressed to Atlantic County Prosecutor Jeffrey S. Blitz at 609-704-7825.